WFO Programs

Professional Image Program

WFO hosts two private boutiques from which we and our professional stylists offer low-income job-seekers image workshops, professional clothing and professional image coaching to the men and women of our community. These services help our clients gain a more positive sense of self and empower them to become confident applicants and successful employees.

Interview WorkshopsNetworks are critical to success – yet our clients report having limited or no professional networks. To help our clients connect directly with potential employers, WFO offers monthly corporate-sponsored interview clinics. These events provide the opportunity to practice interviewing with up to four different professionals who offer constructive feedback and help the client with their interview skills. Clients gains confidence in their interview skills and learn the importance of having a network to support them.

Style for a Steal
Launched in 2000, the Style for a Steal Event gives WFO clients the opportunity to supplement their career wardrobes by purchasing professional clothing at a low cost. This event is exclusively available to WFO clients who have completed the Professional Image Program and two of their guests. In addition to maximizing the impact of WFO’s excess merchandise, the event also provides an opportunity for our clients and volunteers to reconnect and learn about other services and programs we offer.

Pathways

To help clients excel on the job, WFO offers an innovative development program – Pathways. Over six-weeks, clients strengthen their communication and conflict-resolution while learning critical teamwork skills and creating specific action plans to achieve professional success. Clients describe the program as an opportunity to turn their dead end jobs into possibilities and the beginning of their future. This program is offered at WFO’s locations and at partner sites for their clients and employees.

To learn more about Pathways, please contact Tamra Johnson at tjohnson@wardrobe.org or 510-463-4100 x 214. To apply for Pathways,please click here.
Success SeriesIn 2009, WFO launched a new program for specifically designed to break the cycle of poverty. Our three month Success Series couples education and relationships to give participants the tools, confidence and support they need to transform their job into a career. The series features training, career coaching, and community mentors. Participants build a career plan and put in place the building blocks to achieve economic success.

Pathways and Success Series graduates represent WFO’s Alumni Program. Our Alumni program incorporates quarterly events, an online member directory, networking groups, bi-weekly support roundtables; Individual Development Accounts (matched savings accounts), and affordable career coaching. This Alumni program connects WFO graduates with each other and the resources they need to continue to advance their careers.

Men's Empowerment Group

In 2010, WFO clients formed the Men’s Empowerment Group (MEG), an organized group designed to be a brotherhood of support. Based on models of accountability and problem solving, MEG builds leadership skills, encourages networking, and supports men to pursue their life passion. MEG also features guest speakers who share their professional expertise. MEG allows for members to express themselves in a safe space. It provides access to new ideas and relationships, and leadership qualities.

MEG meets twice a month (the first and third Thursday). To learn more about Men’s Empowerment Group, please contact Rich Harper at richbfocused@aol.com.